Ex-Red Sox star says disputes are in the past

Published 12:19 am, Friday, February 15, 2013

Youkilis took part in his first workout with the New York Yankees on Thursday and addressed past feuding with Chamberlain over tight fastballs.

After Youkilis agreed to join the Yankees, the reliever left him a voice mail. Chamberlain said in January he had not heard back, then revealed earlier this month he had received a text.

"You guys have written a lot about it, and I think it's just something you guys keep going on and on about," Youkilis told reporters Thursday. "But we're here at spring training as a team and ready to play. I hope the only drama this year we create is walk-off home runs and hits."

Youkilis and Chamberlain, who was taking part in the second day of workouts for New York's pitchers and catchers, didn't cross paths Thursday. Both are looking forward to seeing each other. "At some time, we'll all sit down and talk, but things all are going to be OK. Don't worry," Youkilis said.

The one-time Boston Red Sox third baseman was part of a pre-spring training session at the Yankees' minor-league complex. Youkilis took batting practice and also stopped at Steinbrenner Field, New York's spring home, and talked with manager Joe Girardi.

Athletics: Oakland closer Grant Balfour had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee to repair a torn meniscus. Dr. Douglas Freedberg operated Thursday. The A's said recovery time usually is four to six weeks and Balfour decided to have the procedure now with the hope of returning for the start of the season.